Having an eating disorder can be a lonely and dangerous time in anybody’s life. But it doesn’t have to be. There are several eating disorder treatment options available for you or your loved one. While many prefer a residential treatment center, it’s not always an accessible option. At Virtue Recovery Las Vegas – Eating Disorders, we offer intensive outpatient eating disorder treatment (IOP). It is a great option for those unable to commit to residential treatment. So, what is an IOP for eating disorders? To learn more about our intensive outpatient eating disorder treatment, call us at 866.984.3819.
What Is an IOP for Eating Disorder Treatment?
What is an IOP for eating disorder treatment? Eating disorder treatment can look different depending on the person, the severity of the disorder, and many other factors. Generally, eating disorder IOP programs run three to five days a week for three to five hours a day. IOP programs typically offer the following:
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Meals
- Education on nutrition
You may also have access to off-site trips to practice healthy coping skills in your day-to-day life. Most often, treatment is individualized, meaning that your treatment will be personalized to your goals and needs.
Eating disorder IOP programs will often have you meeting with a therapist and nutritionist at least once a week for individual sessions to stay updated on your progress.
Is an IOP for an Eating Disorder Right for You?
When trying to decide what type of treatment is best for your specific situation, there are several guidelines that should be considered. If you experience any of the following, an IOP may be right for you:
- Notice that your disordered eating habits are continuing to have a negative impact on your life
- Would benefit from having support and structure to help manage and cope with your eating disorder
- Are not at imminent risk of serious harm to self or others
- Are able to comply with the requirements of the program
An IOP is also appropriate for anyone who cannot step away from their work or school. IOPs provide flexibility and are an ideal solution for those looking to continue engaging in their daily activities while, at the same time, focusing on recovery.
Flexibility of IOP Eating Disorder Programs
Many people who choose to attend IOP for eating disorder programs rather than inpatient treatment are functioning adequately enough in their lives but need more support and structure to help assist them with recovery. IOP programs are more intense than weekly talk therapy sessions and offer more structure generally. A person may also be transitioning from a hospital or residential program and not feel comfortable enough to abandon intensive treatment entirely.
An eating disorder IOP program allows individuals to continue to attend to their responsibilities, whether that be work, school, or family, while also receiving necessary treatment. An IOP for eating disorders allows patients to live their life freely while receiving necessary medical and therapeutic support.
Those who can handle a lower level of structured treatment will benefit most from an IOP program. They are able to have control over eating disorder behaviors such as binging, purging, restricting, and overexercising. However, they may still experience relapses, triggers, and other psychological issues due to their eating disorder. IOP offers supportive and comprehensive treatment for those who need it but are not in a position to stop their day-to-day life.
You should not attend an IOP if you have medical complications that may require intense supervision or medical care. If this is the case, the care team at your treatment center will refer you to a facility that’s right for you.
Call Virtue Recovery Las Vegas – Eating Disorders Today
If you or a loved one are struggling with an eating disorder, it’s time to seek help. At Virtue Recovery Las Vegas, we offer several eating disorder treatment programs and can help you decide which one is right for you. Contact us today at 866.984.3819 to discover our eating disorder IOP.
